The 2023 L’Hêtre Côtes de Bordeaux is the flagship wine of Château L’Hêtre, the Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux estate owned by the Thienpont family, renowned for Vieux Château Certan and Le Pin. Predominantly Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is sourced from sustainably farmed limestone and clay vineyards overlooking Saint-Émilion. The 2023 vintage reflects the estate’s philosophy of elegance over power, producing a refined Bordeaux with freshness, precision and impressive ageing potential.
The nose reveals aromas of black cherry, blackberry and ripe plum layered with violets, cedar, graphite and subtle baking spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with concentrated dark berry fruit supported by silky, fine-grained tannins and vibrant natural acidity. Notes of cocoa, crushed stone and savoury herbs unfold through a long, polished finish with excellent balance, purity and finesse.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A beautifully crafted Right Bank Bordeaux that offers the pedigree of one of the region’s great winemaking families at exceptional value. Its refined structure and savoury complexity make it an excellent match for roast lamb, duck breast, beef tenderloin, mushroom dishes and mature hard cheeses. Enjoy now with a short decant or cellar through 2038 as it develops greater complexity, earthy nuance and classic Bordeaux character.
